| Abstract: | Osteoconduction and non‐toxic bioresorbability can be achieved by combining Bioglass® particles and Poly (3‐hydroxybutyrate) (P3HB) fibre meshes in novel composites for tissue engineering scaffolds. Bioglass® coatings readily induce hydroxyapatite (HA) formation on fibre surfaces in vitro, while biodegradable P3HB yields non toxic degradation products. In the present investigation, P3HB meshes were used, which were generated by means of an embroidery technology on the basis of yarns with 12 and 24 filaments with diameters of ～ 30 μm. Bioglass® particles of average particle size < 5 μm were used to produce coatings on P3HB meshes by slurry dipping. By varying the concentration of Bioglass® particles in aqueous slurry, coating thickness and homogeneity could be controlled. Optimally coated meshes were incubated in simulated body fluid (SBF) for 3, 7, 14, and 21 days to detect formation of HA, as a qualitative assessment of bioactivity. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) observations coupled with X‐ray diffraction analyses revealed the presence of HA crystals on mesh surfaces following 3 days of incubation in SBF. The amount of HA crystals was shown to increase with incubation time in SBF. Minimal polymer degradation was seen after 21 days in SBF, suggesting a suitable time frame for tissue replacement. The novel Bioglass® /P3HB composite meshes developed here are potential materials for bone tissue engineering scaffold applications. |
